Newcomer Neel Sethi Cast as 'Mowgli' in Jon Favreau's Live-Action JUNGLE BOOK

Jon Favreau has found his Mowlgi.

Disney announced today that after a slew of auditions, newcomer Neel Sethi has landed the lead role of 'Mowgli' in the director's upcoming live-action adaptation The Jungle Book, according to Deadline. Directed by Favreau from a script by Justin Marks, The Jungle Book combines live action and animated filmmaking.

"Casting is the most important element of any film and finding the right kid to play Mowgli was imperative," Favreau said in a statement released this afternoon. "Neel has tremendous talent and charisma. There is a lot riding on his little shoulders and I'm confident he can handle it."

"Neel embodies the heart, humor, and daring of the character," said Sarah Finn, casting director of the film. "He's warm and accessible, yet also has an intelligence well beyond his years and impressed us all with his ability to hold his own in any situation. Even though he has no professional acting experience, his natural charisma and instincts jumped out at us."

Idris Elba is voicing the tiger Shere Khan, Scarlett Johansson is the voice of the python Kaa, and Lupita Nyong'o will voice Rakcha, Mowgli's adopted wolf mother. Ben Kinglsey will voice Bagheera.

The Jungle Book arrives in theaters in 3D on October 9, 2015.